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Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
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Metabolic testing does not alter distance running lower body sagittal kinematics
Ryan S Sloan1, Jeff T Wight1, David R Hooper1
1Department of Kinesiological Sciences, Jacksonville University, 2800 University Blvd North, Jacksonville, FL 32211, USA.
Gait & Posture
|January 15, 2020
Summary
Metabolic testing (MT) does not alter running kinematics or stride variability. This confirms the validity of combining kinematic and metabolic analyses for runners, though MT is slightly more physiologically demanding.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Distance running fitness is often assessed using metabolic testing (MT), which requires runners to wear a mask.
- The impact of this mask on running kinematics and stride-to-stride variability (SSV) is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if metabolic testing (MT) significantly alters running kinematics and stride-to-stride variability (SSV) in recreational runners.
- To compare lower body joint angles during standard treadmill running versus running with a metabolic mask.
Main Methods:
- Twenty recreational runners performed both control (CON) and metabolic testing (MT) runs on a treadmill.
- Kinematic data were collected using 3D motion capture, and heart rate (HR) was monitored.
- Statistical analyses, including repeated measures ANOVA and ICC analysis, were used to compare kinematic variables and SSV between CON and MT conditions.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in sagittal plane lower body joint angles or SSV between CON and MT conditions.
- Kinematic measures demonstrated strong reliability (ICC: 0.89-0.99) between CON and MT.
- Slight, statistically significant increases in heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were observed during MT.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic testing (MT) does not appear to alter running kinematics or SSV, supporting the validity of combined kinematic and MT analyses.
- While kinematics remain consistent, MT imposes a slightly higher physiological demand on runners.
- Clinicians and coaches can use these findings to confidently integrate kinematic assessments with metabolic testing.
